I love this coconut cream fruit tart because it feels light, tropical, and refreshing while still being rich and creamy. I enjoy how the coconut flavor adds a smooth sweetness that pairs perfectly with fresh fruit on top. I also like how it looks impressive with very little effort, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Tart crust (store-bought or homemade)
Coconut milk (full-fat for best creaminess)
Heavy cream
Granulated sugar
Cornstarch
Vanilla extract
Shredded coconut (optional for extra texture)
Fresh fruit (strawberries, kiwi, mango, blueberries, etc.)
Lemon or lime zest (optional for brightness)
Directions
I start by baking the tart crust according to package or recipe instructions and letting it cool completely.
I make the coconut cream filling by heating coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch in a saucepan, stirring constantly until it thickens into a smooth custard-like texture.
I remove it from heat and stir in vanilla extract and shredded coconut if I want extra texture.
I let the coconut cream cool slightly, then I fold in lightly whipped cream to make it airy and smooth.
I pour the filling into the cooled tart crust and spread it evenly.
I chill the tart until the filling is fully set and firm.
I top it with fresh fruit right before serving and sometimes add a little citrus zest for brightness.
servings and timing
I usually get about 8 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Chilling time: 2–3 hours
Total time: about 3–4 hours
variations
I like changing this tart depending on the season. Sometimes I use only tropical fruits like mango and pineapple, or I add passion fruit for extra tang. I also enjoy making it dairy-free by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream. When I want more texture, I sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on top.
storage/reheating
I store the tart in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. I always add the fresh fruit just before serving so it stays vibrant and doesn’t release too much juice. I do not reheat this tart because it is meant to be served chilled.
FAQs
Can I use canned coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
I can use coconut cream for a richer filling, but I sometimes adjust the sugar because it is thicker and more concentrated.
Why didn’t my coconut filling thicken?
I notice this happens when I don’t cook it long enough or don’t use enough cornstarch, so I make sure it bubbles and thickens before removing it from heat.
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
I often make the filling and crust a day ahead, but I add the fruit right before serving for freshness.
What fruits work best on top?
I like using berries, kiwi, mango, and pineapple because they add color and balance the creamy filling.
Can I use a graham cracker crust instead?
I sometimes use a graham cracker crust, and I find it adds a nice crunchy contrast to the smooth filling.
Conclusion
I enjoy making coconut cream fruit tart because it is creamy, refreshing, and visually beautiful. I like how the coconut filling feels light yet indulgent, and I appreciate how easy it is to customize with different fruits depending on what I have available.
Coconut Cream Fruit Tart
- Author: lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 3–4 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Chilling
- Cuisine: Tropical
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A light and creamy coconut custard tart topped with fresh colorful fruit, combining a smooth tropical coconut filling with a crisp tart crust for a refreshing and elegant dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 tart crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups full-fat coconut milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup shredded coconut (optional)
- 2–3 cups fresh fruit (strawberries, kiwi, mango, blueberries, etc.)
- 1 tsp lemon or lime zest (optional)
Instructions
- Bake tart crust according to package or recipe instructions and allow it to cool completely.
- In a saucepan, whisk together coconut milk, sugar, and cornstarch over medium heat.
- Stir continuously until mixture thickens into a smooth custard and begins to gently bubble.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and shredded coconut if using.
- Let coconut cream cool slightly.
- In a separate bowl, lightly whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form, then gently fold into the coconut mixture.
- Pour filling into the cooled tart crust and smooth the top evenly.
- Refrigerate for 2–3 hours until fully set and chilled.
- Top with fresh fruit just before serving.
- Finish with citrus zest if desired and serve chilled.
Notes
- Add fruit only before serving to keep it fresh and prevent excess moisture.
- Cook filling until fully thickened to ensure it sets properly.
- Use full-fat coconut milk for best creamy texture.
- Graham cracker crust can be used for extra crunch and flavor contrast.
- Toasted coconut flakes add extra texture and aroma.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
